Sat Jan 04 06:30:48 UTC 2025: ## Rohit Sharma Denies Test Retirement After Sitting Out Sydney Match

**Sydney, Australia** – India captain Rohit Sharma has addressed speculation surrounding his absence from the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney, clarifying that his decision to “rest” was due to poor form, not retirement. Sharma’s 31 runs in five innings in the series led to concerns about his future in Test cricket, particularly given India’s five-month break from the format.

Speaking to Star Sports, Sharma confirmed that he informed the coach and selectors of his decision after the Melbourne Test, stating that his poor form made him a liability in a crucial match that India needed to win. He emphasized that his decision was made with the team’s best interests in mind, and that the selectors supported his choice.

Rumors of retirement, fueled by comments from Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri, were quickly dispelled by Sharma. He emphatically stated that he is not retiring and intends to continue playing. “I don’t believe in what happens five months later,” he said. “This decision is not a retirement decision. I am not going to move away from the game.”

Sharma’s absence opened the door for Shubman Gill to join the team for the crucial fifth Test, with India currently trailing the series 1-2. While acknowledging the disappointment of missing the match, Sharma insisted his priority remains team success. “I have not come so far to just sit out,” he said. “It’s all about teamwork. If you don’t think about the team, then why are you here?”

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